Final answer:
The frond, also known as a fiddlehead in its early stage, is the part of the fern that makes food through the process of photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy in the form of carbohydrates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The part of the fern that makes food is the frond, typically recognized in its early stage as a fiddlehead. Ferns are photoautotrophs; they use sunlight to perform photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide into carbohydrates that provide energy and building materials for growth. The fern fronds are the main photosynthetic organs, meaning they are crucial for the fern's ability to produce food. Additionally, fronds can also carry reproductive organs, thus playing a significant role in the fern's life cycle. Some fern fronds, when they are in the fiddlehead stage, are considered a delicacy and are used in various gourmet recipes around the world.